Visit Valence: Must-See Attractions
Located in the heart of the Drôme, Valence enjoys a sunny climate, between the foothills of the Vercors and the Ardèche hills.
This former Roman city is renowned for its historic heritage, parks and relaxed way of life.
During your break in Valence, make sure you explore these must-see attractions!
Begin your visit in the historic city centre, with its cobbled streets, colourful façades and lively squares.
Stop at Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral, an iconic landmark dating back to the 11th century. One of Valence’s oldest monuments, it is also a starting point for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
In the centre of the cloister, you can admire Le Pendentif, a funerary monument dating from the 16th century.
Then head to the Maison des Têtes, famous for its outstanding Renaissance architecture, and the Maison mauresque, built in 1860.
In the heart of Jouvet Park, the Peynet bandstand has become one of Valence’s most recognisable landmarks.
Nestled near the Champ de Mars, this peaceful, romantic spot is ideal for a break in a spacious seven-hectare park.
To discover the history of Valence, head to the Valence Museum, housed in the former bishop’s palace.
Explore collections devoted to the region’s art, archaeology and heritage, from antiquity to the present day.
Valence is also renowned for its gastronomy and local produce.
Head to the markets on Place Saint-Jean, Place des Clercs or Place Danton to discover the specialities of the Drôme.
Before you leave, be sure to sample the famous ravioles, pogne (a traditional brioche), caillettes (pork and herb parcels) and the Suisse de Valence (a shortbread biscuit flavoured with orange peel), as well as the wines of the Rhône Valley, which pair beautifully with these specialities.
Valence lies at the gateway to the Rhône Valley, one of France’s leading wine regions.
The city is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding vineyards and meeting passionate winemakers during tastings at local wine estates.
Whether you are planning a weekend break or a longer holiday, stay at a 4-star hotel in Valence, just a few minutes from the city centre.
The Best Western Hôtel Atrium offers spacious, air-conditioned and soundproofed rooms, as well as duplex rooms for family stays.
Start your day with our buffet breakfast, featuring pogne brioche alongside organic or locally sourced produce.
Then enjoy some time to unwind in our wellness area, complete with a sauna and fitness room.
Book your stay in Valence today!
This former Roman city is renowned for its historic heritage, parks and relaxed way of life.
During your break in Valence, make sure you explore these must-see attractions!
Stroll through Valence’s historic centre
Valence’s historic landmarks
Begin your visit in the historic city centre, with its cobbled streets, colourful façades and lively squares.
Stop at Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral, an iconic landmark dating back to the 11th century. One of Valence’s oldest monuments, it is also a starting point for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
In the centre of the cloister, you can admire Le Pendentif, a funerary monument dating from the 16th century.
Then head to the Maison des Têtes, famous for its outstanding Renaissance architecture, and the Maison mauresque, built in 1860.
The Peynet bandstand, a romantic symbol of Valence
In the heart of Jouvet Park, the Peynet bandstand has become one of Valence’s most recognisable landmarks.
Nestled near the Champ de Mars, this peaceful, romantic spot is ideal for a break in a spacious seven-hectare park.
Visit Valence’s Museum of Art and Archaeology
To discover the history of Valence, head to the Valence Museum, housed in the former bishop’s palace.
Explore collections devoted to the region’s art, archaeology and heritage, from antiquity to the present day.
Discover the flavours and way of life of Valence
Markets and local cuisine
Valence is also renowned for its gastronomy and local produce.
Head to the markets on Place Saint-Jean, Place des Clercs or Place Danton to discover the specialities of the Drôme.
Before you leave, be sure to sample the famous ravioles, pogne (a traditional brioche), caillettes (pork and herb parcels) and the Suisse de Valence (a shortbread biscuit flavoured with orange peel), as well as the wines of the Rhône Valley, which pair beautifully with these specialities.
A gateway to the vineyards
Valence lies at the gateway to the Rhône Valley, one of France’s leading wine regions.
The city is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding vineyards and meeting passionate winemakers during tastings at local wine estates.
Your 4-star hotel in Valence
Whether you are planning a weekend break or a longer holiday, stay at a 4-star hotel in Valence, just a few minutes from the city centre.
The Best Western Hôtel Atrium offers spacious, air-conditioned and soundproofed rooms, as well as duplex rooms for family stays.
Start your day with our buffet breakfast, featuring pogne brioche alongside organic or locally sourced produce.
Then enjoy some time to unwind in our wellness area, complete with a sauna and fitness room.
Book your stay in Valence today!
